• When applicable, properly using and selecting appropriate message handling instruction(s) or operating signal(s) The following is a recommended checklist for message drafters to use when preparing a message for the releaser: MESSAGE DRAFTER’S CHECKLIST —          1. —          2. — 3. —           4. — 5. — 6. — 7. — 8. — 9. — 10. —   1 1 . —   1 2 . —   1 3. Correct page numbering. Precedence. Classification. Time of file same on all pages of multipage message. OPS or ADMIN. and OPSIG(s) as required, assigned. Correct  placement  of  FROM/TO/INFO/ XMT addee line. Valid short title. Office codes if applicable. Authorized use of AIGs/CADs. Addressees requiring more than one line have second and subsequent lines indented five spaces. Numerical designators spelled out in address. Accounting  data  included  on  message containing commercial addresses. Correct symbols used: ZERO (0) and OSCAR (O). —  14.  RADDRs  correctly  formatted. — 15. RADDRs addressed to AIDs/CADs. — 16.   Correct   SSIC. —   1 7 . —   1 8 . —   1 9 . —   2 0 . —   2 1 . —   2 2. —   2 3 . —   2 4 . Subject line included. References are complete and in proper order. NOTAL/PASEP used if applicable. Downgrading instructions. Distribution correctly prepared. No more than 69 characters to each line. Proper use of correction tape. Proper OCR font used. RELEASER RESPONSIBILITIES The message releaser is a properly designated individual authorized to release a message for transmission in the name of the orginator. In addition to validating the contents of the message, the releaser’s signature affirms compliance with message-drafting instructions. Also, the releaser’s signature authorizes transmission of the message. The message releaser is responsible for the following: • • • • • Establishing message staffing and processing procedures, within the scope of his or her authority, designed to prevent inordinate delays, eliminate backlogs, and foster an even flow of messages  throughout Ensuring either “OPS” or “ADMIN” is typed in the MESSAGE HANDLING INSTRUCTION block Ensuring all personnel under his or her control are briefed and understand the meaning and importance of MINIMIZE Deciding whether the message qualifies for electrical transmission or should be sent via NAVGRAM Ensuring  the  drafter  has  complied  with NTP 3(H) and supplemental instructions, with particular attention paid to classified messages 8-9